From the Laboratory to the Field: Prof. Dr. Birgit Böhm from the Technical University of Munich Delivers a “Cardio Trekking” Seminar at Istanbul Gedik University

Istanbul Gedik University Faculty of Sport Sciences welcomed Prof. Dr. Birgit Böhm from the Technical University of Munich (TUM), one of Europe’s leading higher education institutions. Recognized for her academic work in human performance and physical activity, Prof. Dr. Böhm shared her latest research on cardiovascular health and the “Cardio Trekking” approach during a seminar held at the University.

Having begun her career as an elite gymnast and coach, Prof. Dr. Böhm has since drawn on her expertise and experience in human performance to promote physical activity among the wider population. Her academic research focuses on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, the effects of physical activity on vascular health, and cardiovascular risk assessment. She is particularly recognized for her expertise in carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) measurement and conducts research on non-invasive methods for assessing vascular health.

During the visit, Prof. Dr. Böhm delivered a seminar titled “Cardio Trekking: A Standardized Test Trail for the Prevention of Cardiac Risks During Nature Walks,” moderated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Houtan Shahidi. The 60-minute presentation attracted considerable interest from academic staff and concluded with a productive question-and-answer session.

The seminar also featured a comprehensive presentation of the European Union INTERREG project “Connect2Move,” led by Prof. Dr. Böhm. Aiming to promote sustainable intergenerational health tourism, the project focuses on developing natural hiking trails. By integrating laboratory-based exercise and cardiopulmonary assessments with real-life nature and mountain hiking experiences, the project seeks to translate scientific research into practical applications.

Organized through the initiative of Prof. Dr. Salih Pınar, Dean of the Faculty of Sport Sciences, the visit marked an important step in advancing Istanbul Gedik University’s international academic collaborations. It is expected to create new opportunities for future joint academic activities and international research projects between the two universities.

On behalf of Faculty of Sport Sciences, we would like to thank Prof. Dr. Birgit Böhm for her kind visit and for sharing her valuable knowledge and expertise with our academic community.